Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered the filing of administrative and criminal cases against a police officer arrested for allegedly transporting ₱1.285 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in Pagadian City.
Nartatez also directed that the Camp Crame-assigned officer be placed under restrictive custody while the investigation is ongoing.
The officer was arrested at a checkpoint along the National Highway in Barangay Tiguma after Pagadian City police received information about the transport of suspected contraband in the area.
A search of the vehicle allegedly yielded 251 reams of New Berlin cigarettes valued at about ₱1.285 million.
Personnel from the Bureau of Customs assisted in the inventory and assessment of the seized items.
Nartatez instructed investigators to file the appropriate charges once the investigation and Customs assessment are completed.
“The arrest demonstrates that no one is above the law. We will ensure a thorough, impartial investigation, and if the evidence warrants, the concerned personnel will face both administrative and criminal charges,” he said.
The officer remains in police custody pending the completion of investigative procedures.
Nartatez said the case should serve as a warning that the PNP would not tolerate personnel involved in illegal activities, regardless of rank or assignment.
“Integrity and accountability are non-negotiable in the PNP,” he said. “We expect every police officer to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and public trust.”